Nepal School Project: Designing for Resilience
Overview
In response to the devastating 2024 monsoon season and the 2025 Tibet earthquake, Archstorming, in collaboration with Karmayog Foundation and Nepal Rising, has launched the Nepal School Project: Designing for Resilience. This international architecture competition invites architects, designers, and students to propose an ecological, earthquake-resistant, and flood-resilient school prototype.
The goal is to develop a replicable model adaptable to various rural locations in Nepal, using sustainable materials and safe construction techniques. These schools will not only ensure continuous education but also function as community shelters during emergencies.
Why You Should Participate
- Make an Impact – Contribute to rebuilding Nepal’s education infrastructure and help communities affected by natural disasters.
- Get International Recognition – Winning and finalist projects will be featured in architecture magazines, blogs, and social media.
- Compete for Prestigious Awards – The 1st place winner will receive €6,000 and the opportunity to have their project built.
- Enhance Your Portfolio – All participants will receive a digital certificate of participation, adding credibility to their architectural portfolio.
Key Highlights
- Flood-Resistant Design: Elevated foundations to mitigate monsoon-related flooding.
- Earthquake-Resilient Structure: Built to withstand seismic activity common in the region.
- Eco-Friendly Approach: Incorporating sustainable materials, passive design, and renewable energy solutions.
- Modular & Scalable: Designed for phased construction, adaptable to varying budgets and community needs.
- Community-Centric: Schools will serve as both educational spaces and emergency shelters.
Entry Fees
| Registration Phase | Fee Per Team | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Early Registration | €90 (+21% VAT) | Feb 6 – Mar 5 |
| Regular Registration | €90 (+21% VAT) | Mar 6 – Apr 2 |
| Advanced Registration | €110 (+21% VAT) | Apr 3 – Apr 30 |
| Final Call Registration | €130 (+21% VAT) | May 1 – May 28 |
Note: Teams can include 1 to 4 members.
Prizes and Recognition
| Prize | Award |
|---|---|
| 1st Prize | €6,000 + Project Construction |
| 2nd Prize | €2,000 |
| 3rd Prize | €1,000 |
| Special Mention (x2) | €500 each |
| Honorable Mentions | 10 winners |
| Publication Opportunities | Winning projects featured in architectural media & competition website |
| Digital Certificates | All participants receive a certificate of participation |
Submission Details
- Projects must be adaptable to various rural settings in Nepal.
- Designs should integrate sustainable materials and disaster-resilient techniques.
- Submissions should include architectural drawings, 3D renderings, and a project description.
- Deadline for submission: May 28, 2025.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Registration Opens | February 6, 2025 |
| Final Registration Deadline | May 28, 2025 |
| Submission Deadline | May 28, 2025 |
| Winners Announcement | June 11, 2025 |
How to Join
- Register Online – Choose your registration phase and sign up before May 28, 2025.
- Develop Your Proposal – Ensure it aligns with the competition’s resilience and sustainability goals.
- Submit Your Project – Upload your final submission before the deadline.
- Wait for the Jury’s Decision – Winners will be announced on June 11, 2025.
Judging Criteria
The jury will evaluate projects based on:
- Innovation & Feasibility – Can the design be easily built and replicated?
- Resilience & Safety – Is the structure earthquake- and flood-resistant?
- Sustainability – Does it incorporate eco-friendly materials and energy solutions?
- Community Integration – Can the school serve as both an educational space and an emergency refuge?
- Design Excellence – Aesthetic, functionality, and cultural relevance.
Jury Panel
- Saurav Rimal – Founder & President, Karmayog Foundation
- Arati Maleku – Co-Founder & President, Nepal Rising; Associate Professor, Ohio State University
- Paz Braga – Founder, Paz Braga; Expert in sustainable architecture
- Takehiko Suzuki – Founder, Takehiko Suzuki Architects; Co-founder, Architecture for the Masses
- Filippo Berardi & Lucia Miglio – Founders, Studio Berardi Miglio
- João Boto – Co-founder, ROOTSTUDIO; Founder, Adobe for Women Association
- Riha Sharma – Founder, Design Doctor; Contributor to CTEVT Nepal
Take part in this transformative initiative and contribute to Nepal’s educational recovery. This is your chance to design for resilience and make a real impact!
